I agree with LondonElite. The advice to read sticky wikis is very good.

Getting into this game is certainly daunting at times. If it was easy, everybody would be doing it and getting great benefits and premium-cabin award tickets. You should focus in on the programs that you intend to use. It sounds like you fly American Airlines mostly, so you should first immerse yourself in the AA forum and then branch out to learn more about their alliance, OneWorld, and their partner airlines.

Don't expect to understand everything on FT right away, or ever. I know a lot about Delta and European SkyTeam hubs, but there are many on the Delta board who put me to shame. When I head over into the British Airways forum, for example, I understand very little of their jargon and discussion. Focus on your airlines and interests and keep at it. You might need to read wikis 2, 3, or 10 times. Take the time to read whole threads on things that interest you, whether that's lounge access policies, getting elite status, understand fare classes, or booking award tickets.

It won't come immediately, but it'll be worth it. And hopefully you'll be able to enjoy the journey to becoming an expert!

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